New tour format proves paw-pular

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A new format for the Meet the Maremma tours has seen crowds more than double.

Over 2,600 people have already taken part in the tours in the 2017-18 season, far eclipsing the 2016-2017 figure of 1,141 people.

Middle Island Project Working Group chair Dr Anne Wallis said that the change in format meant that more engaging tours could run more often.

“The new tour format has a strong focus on penguin conservation, is more interactive, and still introduces participants to the maremma dogs and their role as penguin protectors,” she said.

“Because tours no longer venture onto Middle Island our session times are no longer ruled by the tides or under threat of cancellation due to wild weather.

“Each tour participant becomes an ambassador for the project, so the more people we can engage with, the better.

“If you haven’t been on a tour yet, it’s not too late. Meet the Maremma tours will run regularly until April 28, including every day of the school holidays.”

All funds from the tours go towards the care of the Middle Island Maremma dogs.

“Community and business support for the Middle Island Penguin Project is stronger than ever,” Dr Wallis said.

“Petstock Warrnambool has sponsored the project from day one and continues to provide food for the maremma guardian dogs.

“The Vet Group is another key partner that provides complete veterinary care including grooming.

“Other support is being provided by Deakin University, Warrnambool City Council, Warrnambool CoastCare Landcare Network and Flagstaff Hill. Rafferty’s Tavern, the Pavilion Cafe and Middle Island Medical Centre have also assisted with fund-raising.”